Happy 2012 everyone! Hopefully this will be a great year for all of us. Last year, the condition of the economy affected all aspects of our lives, some much more than others. Thankfully adoptions continued at a steady rate but sadly, requests for relinquishment -- many of which were directly due to bad economic times -- have increased. The list of birds waiting to join us continues to be extremely long -- in most cases the wait is several months.

Our educational classes continue to be well attended. Even if you've already attended the basic classes, I encourage you to 'audit' them again because new and updated information may have been incorporated since you last took the class. Each Positive Reinforcement class is different, for example, because trainer Debbie Foster presents different behaviors to train in each session. Plus you never know which 'student' will be featured!

CPR has many exciting plans in 2012. A very special and personal dream of mine for CPR will come true this year. Stayed tuned for announcements!

Chippy is a male who came to CPR through Animal Control. He was an extremely nervous little fellow at first but with patience and training he has truly blossomed.

Chippy targets beautifully and is very food motivated. He shows great interest in his environment but still prefers low energy and cautious movement in humans who are working with him.

Watch a video of Chippy.

Satai is a sweet but shy female Senegal. We are working with her slowly as she becomes accustomed to being with us. In her home, she was becoming increasingly nippy and exhibited a good deal of hormonal behavior.

Satai is a very beautiful Senegal who will do best in a patient and low energy home, hopefully with someone who can whistle -- it's one of her favorite things to do!

Watch a video of Satai doing 'the wave'.

Louie is a beautiful, male Solomon Island Eclectus. He strongly prefers men and joined CPR due to excessive screaming and aggression toward the females in his home. Debbie reports there has been a remarkable breakthrough with Louie. He is now completely target trained and is very excited about his training. Plus, we've recently started to hear 'human' comments from him, as well as mimicry of telephones. Louie still exhibits some aggressive behavior (some biting after stepping up), but is showing much improvement. Sex & the Single Bird will be required in addition to the regular two classes.

Watch a video of Louie doing the 'turnaround' and watch a video of Louie going through a tunnel.

Dr. Frank Rutowski, of Animal Care Hospital of Matthews, continues his regular office hours with limited evening appointments available. Please call 704-847-3647 for appointments.